What is the effect of failing to serve a summons within the designated timeframe?

Failing to serve a summons within the designated timeframe generally results in consequences for the plaintiff, and one of the most significant implications is the possibility of the court dismissing the action. Courts set specific time limits for serving the summons to ensure that cases progress efficiently and fairly. If the plaintiff does not adhere to this timeline, it often leads the court to dismiss the action outright, as it demonstrates a failure to pursue the case diligently.

While there can be specific circumstances where extensions are granted or where the plaintiff may seek to reinstate their case with proper justification, the default rule upholds that the lack of timely service results in dismissal. This serves as an incentive for plaintiffs to act promptly and follow procedural rules, thus maintaining order within the judicial system.